The Boston Police Department is investigating an indecent assault and battery that occurred at about 9:15 AM on Wednesday, September 27, 2017 in the area of Thorndike Street in District D-4 (South End). The female victim reported that she was entering a building in the area when the suspect wrapped his arms around her and indecently assaulted her. The suspect was described as a young, light-skinned male with a thin build, who at the time of the incident was wearing a yellow shirt (possibly with a logo or writing on the chest), dark colored pants or jeans, a dark colored hoody that may have a red interior liner, dark colored sneakers with white mid-soles and possible red trim or accents near the ankles/laces/tongue, and carrying a red backpack or messenger bag with a black strap. The suspect also appears to “swing” out his right foot when he walks.

The Boston Police is seeking the public’s help in identifying the individual pictured in the above photos in relation to this incident. This person is NOT wanted at this time, and the images are being provided for identification purposes only.

The Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit is actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Those with information are asked to call detectives directly at (617) 343-4400. Community members wanting to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1 (800) 494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of all those who wish to help this investigation anonymously.

If you’re a victim of a sexual assault that has or has not been reported to police and would feel more comfortable seeking confidential advice from a non-law enforcement agency or representative, the Boston Police Department encourages you to call the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) at 1 (800) 841-8371. BARCC provides free and confidential counseling, case management, legal and medical advocacy services to survivors in the greater Boston area. To learn more about BARCC, please click on the enclosed link: www.barcc.org

TIPS FOR ENSURING YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY: The BPD encourages individuals to review the following safety tips with the understanding that, while these tips are designed to decrease and diminish the likelihood of an attack, no victim is ever to blame for the actions of an attacker.

Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and when possible try to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas.

When possible, walk with friends and people you know especially late at night.

Avoid the distractions created when talking on a cell phone or listening to an iPod/similar device. Avoid wearing ear buds or headphones in both ears.

If you believe someone is following you, change direction, cross the street, seek a populated location and call 911.

Remember descriptive information about the person following you to report to the police.

If confronted, believe in your ability to fight back and defend yourself. Creating distance and yelling words like: “fire”, “help” or “rape” are effective ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.

Keep your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon to ward off an attack.

Trust your instincts and understand that anyone at any time can be a victim of crime. Never assume: “It won’t ever happen to me.”